Planning permission has been granted for the erection of a double modular classroom for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) at Gilford Primary School, Castle Hill, Gilford.

The modular unit will include toilet facilities. Associated site works have been approved too.

ABC Planning officers wrote in their determination: “The proposed modular building will be erected on a grassed area to the front of the two-storey school brick building.

“The building will not be easily viewed from the public road as the eastern site boundary of stone walling and trees provides screening. [It will have a] single-storey design, with a ridge height of 3.5m and a footprint measuring 24.7m x 7.2m.

The modular unit at Gilford PS will be largely hidden from view. Credit: Google

placeholder image — The modular unit at Gilford PS will be largely hidden from view. Credit: Google

“The site is located within the curtilage of an existing school and is a grass area used for soft play by children.The playground is within school grounds and is only used by pupils within the school.

"It was noted at the time of site inspection that there was another tarmac playground adjacent to the site, and a large grass area will remain if approval were granted.

“The new mainstream double modular classroom will allow the refurbishment of a number of internal rooms consisting of existing mainstream classrooms, two stores and a library area to improve specialist provision facilities for current pupils attending the school.

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The modular unit will accommodate two classrooms and toilet facilities. Image: ABC planning portal

“The proposed development directly supports the urgent requirement to improve facilities for children with special educational needs, many of whom are currently attending the school.

“[The modular unit will] help the school meet requirements and delivery of the school curriculum by providing support accommodation, right-sizing classrooms as SEN classrooms have to be larger with associated sensory rooms, etc.

“The delay in delivery of this accommodation has a direct impact on these pupils’ access to education in an environment suitable to their needs.

“This project will enable the school to meet the needs of all pupils currently attending the school. In addition to this, in the next three years the school will be able to offer a place for up to eight additional SEN children as there will then be a suitable pathway for the children.